By Guest Writer - Kiadi Rakotomavo
India and Madagascar enjoy a multifaceted relationship rooted in historical ties, shared values, and a commitment to regional stability and development. Their partnership spans political, military, economic, and diplomatic domains, underscoring a shared vision for mutual growth and collaboration.
Historical Context
Diplomatic ties between India and Madagascar date back to the late 18th century, beginning with maritime links. India established a consulate in Madagascar in 1954, upgrading it to an embassy when Madagascar gained independence in 1960. This longstanding relationship has evolved into a robust partnership centred on democracy, development, and shared regional interests.
Diplomatic Relations
Recent Developments
High-Level Visits: A significant milestone was the 2023 meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Malagasy President Andry Rajoelina at the World Governments Summit in Dubai. This first-ever meeting symbolized a renewed era of bilateral cooperation, emphasizing trade, security, and cultural exchange.
Ongoing Engagements: India continues to strengthen ties through high-level diplomatic efforts. During President Rajoelina’s investiture ceremony in December 2023, Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations) of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, conveyed Prime Minister Modi’s best wishes and explored avenues for deepening economic collaboration.
Multilateral Cooperation
India and Madagascar consistently support each other in international forums. Madagascar has endorsed India’s candidacies in various UN bodies, while both nations participate in regional organizations like the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC). These platforms facilitate joint efforts on regional security and economic development.
Strategic Importance
Madagascar’s strategic location in the southwest Indian Ocean makes it a key partner for India. This significance is heightened in the face of growing Chinese influence in the region, prompting India to reinforce its diplomatic presence as part of its broader “Neighbourhood First” policy. This approach aims to enhance regional engagement and ensure maritime security.
Political Relations
India and Madagascar share a close political bond, nurtured through high-level visits and mutual support. Since the 1960s, the two countries have collaborated on various initiatives reflecting their shared democratic values and developmental aspirations. Madagascar’s backing of India in international forums further underscores their strong political alignment.
Military Cooperation
Defence Agreements: In 2018, India and Madagascar signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for defence collaboration, including joint military exercises and capacity building for Madagascar’s navy.
Joint Training and Exercises: The Indian Navy has played an active role in training Madagascar’s naval forces. For instance, the INS Sumedha's visit fostered operational exchanges to improve coordination and enhance capabilities.
Strategic Role: Madagascar’s location in the Indian Ocean enhances its strategic value for India, particularly for safeguarding trade routes and countering regional security threats like piracy and illegal trafficking.
Economic Relations
Trade Overview
Bilateral trade has witnessed significant growth, with India exporting $533 million worth of goods to Madagascar in 2022, including rice, refined petroleum, and wheat flour. Meanwhile, Madagascar’s exports to India, primarily cloves, essential oils, and graphite, stood at $123 million. Efforts to address the trade imbalance continue.
Investment Opportunities
Indian companies are expanding their investments in Madagascar across sectors like:
Mining and Minerals: Graphite processing and other ventures.
Telecommunications: Airtel’s strong presence in the Malagasy mobile sector.
Healthcare: Indian firms, such as Dr. Aggarwal’s Eye Hospital, are establishing operations.
Additionally, India’s $25 million concessional line of credit aims to boost Madagascar’s agriculture and fertilizer production.
Economic Cooperation Framework
India’s Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) Scheme offers Madagascar duty-free access to 96% of Indian tariff lines. However, Madagascar is yet to fully leverage this opportunity to its benefit.
Conclusion
India and Madagascar’s relationship is built on a foundation of historical ties, robust diplomatic engagement, and a shared vision for the future. Through ongoing collaboration in political, military, and economic domains, both nations are poised to deepen their partnership. In an era of shifting geopolitical dynamics, their alliance is set to play a critical role in promoting stability, security, and development in the Indian Ocean region.
( Kiadi Rakotomavo is an international student from Madagascar pursuing an MBA in Sport Management at Symbiosis International in India. With a bachelor’s degree in Public Law from the Catholic University of Madagascar (UCM), he offers a unique mix of legal insight and sports management expertise.)
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